From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (main entry)

Born in Chipley, Florida, Artis Gilmore came to Kentucky in 1971 to play center for the Kentucky Colonels of the American Basketball Association (ABA). The team was based in Louisville, KY.

The 7'2" Gilmore previously played for two years at Gardner-Webb College and had an outstanding playing career at Jacksonville University. He was a first-round draft choice when the Kentucky Colonels selected him.

The Kentucky Colonels existed from 1967-1976, winning the ABA championship in 1975. Gilmore was named rookie of the year and player of the year his first year in the league, became the overall league leader in rebounds, and had many more accomplishments during his ABA career. In 1976, the ABA and NBA merged, and Gilmore continued his career with several NBA teams.

He retired in 1989 as one of the all-time leaders in number of games played and rebounds.

For more on Artis Gilmore see Who's Who of Sports Champions (1995); his entry in the Basketball Reference website; his Legends profile entry at NBA History; and his entry in Basketball Hall of Fame (a 2011 inductee).

For more about the Kentucky Colonels see Remembering the ABA: Kentucky Colonels.